Fiona Phillips is known for hosting ITV’s GMTV breakfast programmed, and in 2023 announced she had been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s the year before
Fiona Phillips’ husband, Martin Frizell, has released a rare video message of the GMTV star in which she opens up about her new book. The 64-year-old TV legend announced in 2023 that she had been diagnosed with dementia the year before. With the help of Martin, Fiona has since released her new Alzheimer’s memoir, Remember When: My Life. Following the book’s publication, Martin took to social media to share a message from Fiona, who had previously admitted to forgetting that she was writing a book by the time they reached the final chapters. In the new footage, she expressed her gratitude as she held an ice-cream whilst in a park with Martin.
She said: “Hello! Thank you for reading my book. Really good of you. Hope you like it. Okay, bye!” Martin wrote in the caption of the video post: “Out for a walk and an Almond Magnum on a hot London afternoon and some words of gratitude for all the kind folk thinking of delving into her book.”
Many fans and followers have flooded the comments section with words of support. Trisha Goddard said: “Sending you lots of love, Fiona. You were so kind to me when you came up to my house in Norfolk to do my first interview after I was diagnosed with breast cancer back in 2008. More than just a colleague… A truly kind, talented and beautiful person!”
Anna Williamson also commented: “Sending Fiona so much love. She really looked out for me in my GMTV days, my telly mum and I will never forget how she comforted me when I was going through a tough time in my relationship.”
A fan also typed: “Congratulations to you both on getting the words on the page. I think you will really help the many many others in a similar situation.”
A fourth also chimed in: “Thank you so much to you and Fiona for sharing that little clip with us…it’s so lovely to see her. Sending love and best wishes to you both….oh and there’s nothing nicer than an almond magnum..!”
A fifth said, “She’s still as gorgeous and lovely as always. The book is truly an incredible read. You’ve both done yourself proud with the book and the way you are handling the situation.” [sic]
Before she released her memoir, Fiona said that she hoped to raise awareness surrounding Alzheimer’s after her diagnosis.
She said: “I hope this book can show people a little about what it is like to live with Alzheimer’s. How frightening and confusing it is. But also how much life can still bring joy and be valued. And if you or someone you love is in the early stages of Alzheimer’s, I hope this book brings you some comfort. I want you to know, you are not alone.”